Tape measure that incorporates a directional marking device

ABSTRACT

A tape measure that incorporates a marking device for allowing an individual to measure and mark a wide variety of materials in a more efficient and economical manner, and for measuring and marking the beginning point of reference and the measured position point simultaneously. The tape measure has a housing, a coiled measuring tape, a tape tip, and a marker having a marking wheel mounted on an axle.

PRIORITY

This application claims the priority date of the provisional applicationentitled Tape Measure that Incorporates a Marking Device filed by DaneScarborough on Dec. 18, 2001, with serial No. 60/342,146, as well as theprovisional application entitled Tape Measure that Incorporates aMarking Device filed by Dane Scarborough on Feb. 28, 2002 with serialNo. 60/360,698.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to measuring devices and morespecifically it relates to a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice for allowing an individual to measure and mark a wide variety ofmaterials in a more efficient and economical manner.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Various different forms and types of measuring devices are known to theprior art. One particular type of measuring device is known as a “tapemeasure.” Tape measures typically comprise a flexible tape resilientlycoiled within a housing. The tape is normally printed with incrementalmeasuring marks for measuring distances. In use, the flexible tape isuncoiled and extended from the housing and placed on a surface to bemeasured. Distances can then be marked with a separate marking tool,such as a pencil, directly onto the surface measured.

Numerous devices incorporating marking tools inside and outside the tapemeasure housing are known in the prior art. These include devices whichare affixed to existing tape measure housings, for instance the selfadhesive scoring attachment of U.S. Pat. No. 6,041,513 (Doak).

These devices also include marking tools which are affixed to belt clipsof existing tape measure housings. In example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,760,648(Doak et al.) which discloses a marking device adapted to be mounted onone side of the tape measure, namely as a replacement belt clip.

These devices also include housings configured for receipt therethroughof marking means, such as pencils or pens. In example, U.S. Pat. No.5,735,052 (Lin) discloses a tape measure having formed therein a passagefor receiving therethrough the marking means.

These devices also include marking tools which are integral with thetape measure housing. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,435,074 (Holevas etal.) discloses a tape measure having a marker attached to the tapemeasure's lock so that depression of the lock mechanism also extends themarker out of the housing of the tape measure. Also, U.S. Pat. No.4,015,337 (Taylor) discloses a marking device integrally formed into thehousing of the tape measure.

These devices can also include scoring means rather than marking (ink,graphite, etc.) means. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 2,649,787(Kobayashi), U.S. Pat. No. 3,063,157 (Keene), and U.S. Pat. No.3,526,964 (Clark, Jr.).

The main problems with these conventional measuring devices aremaintenance, inaccuracy and lack of versatility.

Prior art working means include the use of pencils, pens, scribes,chalk, and/or crayons. These methods of marking require continuedmaintenance in the form of refilling, sharpening, and/or adjusting theheight or position of the marking instrument. Every time these markingmeans are subject to routine maintenance, inaccuracies become possible.

Another disadvantage is the fact that these methods for marking arelimited in the scope of materials they can mark. For example, it isdifficult to use a pencil, pen, or scribe to mark glass or ceramic tile.Conversely, it would not be preferable to use a felt marker or pen tomark material that will receive a clear finish or a painted finishwherein the mark of the pen or marker may bleed through the finish.

Another problem with conventional measuring devices are the number ofprocedures required to complete the task of measuring and markingmaterials accurately. These prior art devices require that the tapemeasure blade be locked into position prior to the use of the markingdevice. For instance, the patent to Holevas et al. discussed above. Suchuse can require additional digital manipulation of the tape measure, anddue to the contact of the locking mechanism to the blade, can cause thetape measure blade to shift from the desired position, thereby causinginaccuracies.

Other problems with conventional measuring devices are their size andcomplexity. Many prior art devices have protrusions that inhibit oreliminate the ability to carry the tape measure in the standard pouch orholder that is often provided on a carpenter's or tradesmen's tool belt.Furthermore, if the tip of the marking instrument is exposed, it cancause damage or harm to other objects, or it can be damaged itself.

Prior art measuring tapes with retractable marking instruments require amechanical means to do so. This retraction means also requiresadditional moving parts. Additional moving parts increase cost, increasethe number of procedures for use, as well as increase the probability ofmalfunction.

What is needed is a tape measure or marking device able to be utilizedwith a tape measure which is readily able to allow an individual tomeasure and mark a wide variety of materials in an efficient andeconomical manner; can be used for measuring and marking both thebeginning point of reference and the measured position pointsimultaneously; requires little to no maintenance; is not prone toinaccuracy; is versatile; can be used to mark a wide variety ofmaterials; is simple to use; is compact and not awkwardly shaped; and isnot prone to damage when in or out of use.

In these respects, a tape measure that incorporates a marking deviceaccording to the present invention substantially departs from theconventional concepts and designs of the prior art, and in so doingprovides an apparatus primarily developed for the above needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types ofmeasuring devices found in the prior art, the present invention providesa new tape measure that incorporates a marking device constructionwherein the same can be utilized for allowing an individual to measureand mark a wide variety of materials in a more efficient and economicalmanner. Another purpose of the present invention is for measuring andmarking the beginning point of reference and the measured position pointsimultaneously.

The general purpose of the present invention, which will be describedsubsequently in greater detail, is to provide a new tape measure thatimproves on the teachings of the prior art. In doing so, the presentinvention has many of the advantages of the measuring devices mentionedheretofore, and many novel features. The result is a new tape measurethat incorporates a marking device which is not anticipated, renderedobvious, suggested, or even implied by any of the prior art measuringdevices, either alone or in any combination thereof.

The present invention generally comprises a housing, a coiled measuringtape, a tape tip, a means for marking, an axle, a holder, preferably ameans for locking the tape blade. The present invention is to be used ona surface to be measured and marked. The housing is preferably anelongated square or cylindrical shape or a combination thereof, havingopposed side walls, a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall, and a frontwall defining an enclosure. The front wall having therethrough a tapeblade aperture. The bottom wall or a portion thereof may be angled insuch a way as to allow for engagement of the tape tip to the surfacebeing measured without initiating contact of the means for marking untilit is intended.

The coiled measuring tape is an elongated blade formed of a ribbon ofmetal or composite material coiled on a means for a spool with a meansto retract. The tape tip attaches to the end of the tape and ispreferably a means for hooking, including a hook portion that extends atan essentially right angle from the mounting portion of the tape tip.The tape tip may include a mark making means that is separate andindependent of the means for marking on the housing. The means formarking preferably has a circular shaped wheel and is preferably made ofa rigid material such as metal, plastic or a mark making composite. Thewheel preferably has an aperture for mating with an axle. This axle ispreferably an elongated cylindrical shape.

The holder embodiment or marker enclosure is preferably an elongatedtubular square in shape. It has a means of attachment to the housing inone embodiment. In another embodiment, it is integral with said housing.It preferably has a protruding cursor that is in alignment with a meansfor holding a marking wheel parallel to the face of the housing andperpendicular to the tape.

The means for locking the tape blade has a button section that protrudesto the exterior of the housing.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more importantfeatures of the invention so that the detailed description thereof maybe better understood, and so that the present contribution to the artmay be better appreciated. There are additional features of theinvention that will be described hereinafter.

In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of theinvention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited in its application to the details of construction and to thearrangements of the components set forth in the following description orillustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not beregarded as limiting.

A primary object of the present invention is to provide a tape measurethat incorporates a marking device that will overcome the shortcomingsof the prior art devices.

An object of the present invention is to provide a tape measure thatincorporates a marking device for allowing an individual to measure andmark a wide variety of materials in a more efficient and economicalmanner. Another purpose is for measuring and marking the beginning pointof reference and the measured position point simultaneously.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that is directional by nature when engaged with a surface to bemeasured.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that can measure and mark two positions simultaneously.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that does not require maintenance to the marking device.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that can measure and mark with one hand operation in a singleeconomical movement.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that once engaged with the material being measured, willaccurately hold its position while the mark is being made, without theuse of an optional mechanical locking device.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that can fit into a common tape pouch or holder on a carpenter'stool belt.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that can engage material to be measured and marked withoutdamaging the material to be marked.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that in one embodiment, has no moving parts.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that is interchangeable and/or replaceable with optional meansfor marking.

Another object is to provide a tape measure that incorporates a markingdevice that can cut a variety of materials.

Another purpose is for measuring and marking the beginning point ofreference and the measured position point simultaneously.

To the accomplishment of the above and related objects, this inventionmay be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings,attention being called to the fact, however, that the drawings areillustrative only, and that changes may be made in the specificconstruction illustrated.

Still other objects and advantages of the present invention will becomereadily apparent to those skilled in this art from the followingdetailed description wherein I have shown and described only thepreferred embodiment of the invention, simply by way of illustration ofthe best mode contemplated by carrying out my invention. As will berealized, the invention is capable of modification in various obviousrespects all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, thedrawings and description of the preferred embodiment are to be regardedas illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various other objects, features and advantages of the present inventionwill become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood whenconsidered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which likereference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout theseveral views.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is an environmental perspective view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a front view of a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a partial side, close-up view of the marking/cutting device ofthe embodiment shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a partial, close-up front view of the embodiment shown in FIG.6.

FIG. 10 is a side environmental view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 6engaging material to be marked.

FIG. 11 is a front view of a third embodiment of the present inventionin position to measure.

FIG. 12 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 in positionto mark.

FIG. 13 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 showing theangled bottom of the housing in relationship to the tape tip and themeans for marking.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 showing theangled bottom of the housing in relationship to the tape tip and themeans for marking.

FIG. 15 is a front view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a front view of a fifth embodiment of the present inventionshowing a dual means for marking with a flexible housing bottom.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 17 showing a dualmeans for marking with a flexible housing bottom.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a sixth embodiment of the present inventionengaged with a surface to be measured and marked.

FIG. 20 is an overhead view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 19 engagedwith a surface to be measured and marked.

FIG. 21 is a front, close-up view of a tape tip containing a means formarking of some embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a side, close-up view of a tape tip containing a means formarking of some embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is an overhead view of a tape tip of some embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 24 is a side view of one embodiment of the housing with means forattachment.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the means for holdingand the means for marking.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the means for holding and the means formarking shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 27 is a front view of the means for holding and the means formarking shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a top view of the means for holding and the means for markingshown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the means for holding and the means formarking shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 30 is a side view of the means for holding and the means formarking shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the means formarking.

FIG. 32 is a side view of the means for marking shown in FIG. 31.

FIG. 33 is a front view of the means for marking shown in FIG. 31.

FIG. 34 is a side view of a seventh embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 35 is a partial, cross-sectional view of the means for marking ofFIG. 34.

FIG. 36 is a partial, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of ameans for marking.

FIG. 37 is a front view of another embodiment of the present inventionshown in position to mark.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

While the invention is susceptible of various modifications andalternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof havebeen shown in the drawings and will be described below in detail. Itshould be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit theinvention to the specific forms or embodiments disclosed, but, on thecontrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternativeconstructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope ofthe invention as defined in the claims.

Turning now descriptively to the drawings in which similar referencecharacters denote similar elements throughout the several views, theattached figures illustrate embodiments of the present invention. In oneembodiment, the present invention is a tape measure that incorporates amarking device. In another embodiment, the present invention comprises amarking device able to be attached to a tape measure.

Referring initially to FIGS. 1-5, shown is one embodiment of the presentinvention 10. This embodiment comprises a tape measure 2 incorporating ameans for marking or “marking device” 80. This improved tape measurecomprising a housing 20, a coiled measuring tape 40 having measuringindicia thereon, a tape tip 60, a marking device or means for marking80, an axle 100, an “enclosure” or holder 120, and a means for lockingthe tape blade 140. The present invention is configured to be used upona surface to be measured and marked 160.

The housing 20 is preferably an elongated square, a cylindrical shape ora combination thereof, as shown in the figures. Many different shapesand styles of tape measure housings are known to the prior art and maybe configured for use with the present invention. The preferred housing20 having opposed side walls 22, 24, a top wall 26, a bottom wall orbase 28, a rear wall 30, and a front wall 32. These walls defining anenclosure for holding a wound tape blade. The front wall 32 having atape blade aperture 34 therethrough for allowing a measuring tape bladeto be extended.

In the preferred embodiment, the coiled measuring tape 40 is anelongated blade formed of a ribbon of metal or composite material coiledon a spooling means, such as a spool, with a retraction means, such as aspring mechanism. Such a coiled blade with spring tape measures arecommon in the prior art. The tape tip 60 or means for hooking is able tohook onto the edge of the surface to be marked, such as the edge of aboard. This tape tip preferably including a hook portion 62 that extendsat an essentially right angle from the mounting portion 66 of the tapetip 60. The use of the phrase “coiled measuring tape” is expresslyintended to include all other means for measuring, including laser,proximity sensors, sonar, etc.

The holder or enclosure 120 of the means for marking 80 is preferablygenerally elongated square in shape or a combination thereof or anyother shape that would effectively house a marking device. In someembodiments, the holder 120 comprises a means of attachment to thehousing, whereas, in other embodiments the holder 120 may be integrallyformed within the housing 20 of the tape measure.

In use, particularly as shown in FIG. 5, the tape tip 60 is hooked onthe edge 162 of the surface to be measured 160. The housing 20 thenmoved away from the edge 162 thereby extending the tape 40. Side to sidemovement of the housing at the desired mark location results in themeans for marking 80 making a mark on the surface to be measured andmarked 162 which is generally perpendicular to the axis of the length ofthe tape 40.

As shown in FIGS. 25-30, the holder 120 may also have a protrudingcursor 124 that is in alignment with the marking wheel or “impressionwheel” 84 of the means for marking 80. Thus, the cursor 124 gives theuser of the present invention an indication of where the marking wheel84 of the means for marking 80 is aligned, thereby indicating thealignment of the mark to be made by the means for marking.

Referring back to FIGS. 1-5, the present invention 10 preferably alsocomprises a means for locking 140 the tape blade 40 in position. Thismeans for locking 140 has a button section 144 that protrudes to theexterior of the housing 20. Means for locking tape blades of tapemeasures, in general, are known in the prior art. The means for locking140 is completely optional, in that the present invention, unlike manyof the prior art devices, will work absent such mean for marking. Thisis due to the fact that the marking means 80 is directional, able tocreate generally a straight line mark generally perpendicular to theextension of the measuring means. Thus, once the marking means is placedagainst the surface to be marked at the location of the mark to be made,the tape itself does not need to be locked into place, but could even beretracted. The present invention is superior over the prior art in thatthe marking process is as easy as extending the housing to the point tobe marked, and marking the surface to be marked. No additional steps arerequired, for instance, the lock does not need to be engaged or themarking means engaged. Each additional step required can result inerrors or variances in location of the marking means from the pointintended to be marked. The present invention, in eliminating theseadditional steps, thereby results in a more accurate measurement.

It is preferred that the housing of the present invention be made of arigid material such as metal, plastic, rubber, composite or acombination thereof. It is preferred that the tape blade of the presentinvention be made of a resilient material, such as metal, plastic or acomposite. It is preferred that the marking wheel be made of a materialable to itself leave or create a mark upon or into the surface to bemarked. For instance, the wheel could be made of a hard metal, such assteel. The marking wheel could likewise be made of different materialsfor the different purposes discussed within this application, including,but not limited to metal, composites, rubber, plastic, naturalmaterials, foam, etc. Likewise, the shape of the marking wheel can be asnecessary, including but not limited to: rounded, flat, angled,sharpened, solid, porous, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the tape tip of the present inventionpreferably includes a means for hooking the tape tip on the edge 162 ofa surface to be measured 160. This means for hooking having a hookportion 62 that extends at an essentially right angle from the mountingportion 66 of the tape tip 60. Such tape tips are standard for tapemeasures in the prior art.

Referring now to FIGS. 22-23, the tape tip 60 comprises a means forhooking including a hooking portion 62 that extends at an essentiallyright angle from the mounting portion 66 of the tape tip 60. Preferably,the tape tip 60 extends below the bottom 28 of the housing, as shown inFIG. 17 to allow the hooking part 62 to easily engage the edge 162 ofthe surface to be measured and marked 160. As seen in FIG. 15, the tapetip 60 may be of an asymmetrical shape to allow for increased engagementof the tape tip 60 to the surface to be measured and marked 160.

Optionally, the tape tip 60 may include a mark making means 180, forinstance as shown in FIGS. 15-16, 22-23. In FIGS. 15 and 16, the meansfor marking 80 may be a serrated edge or the edge of the tape tip 60itself may be embedded with a mark making means such as diamondparticles or a means for leaving a mark. Whereas in FIGS. 21-23, thetape tip 60 itself may include a mark making means 180.

In FIGS. 21-23, the means for marking 180 preferably comprises acircular shaped wheel 184 or portion thereof. It is preferred that themeans for marking 180 be made of a rigid material such as metal, plasticor a mark making composite. The wheel 184 preferably has an aperture 182for mating with an axle. The axle 100 is preferably an elongatedcylindrical shape. Likewise, this tape tip 60 has a hooking portion 62and a mounting portion 66. This means for marking 180 able to beconfigured for applying a mark as any other means for marking 80, 180disclosed herein. The preferred embodiment of a wheel 184 utilized withthe present invention can be found in FIGS. 31-33. The wheel 84 of thepresent invention may be likewise shaped.

Referring now to FIGS. 6-7, shown is another embodiment of the presentinvention. This embodiment having a housing 20, a tape blade aperture34, and a tape terminating in a tape tip 60. This embodiment having ameans for marking holder 120 which is integral with the housing 20. Thisis in contrast to a holder which is attached to the housing, as shown inFIG. 1. These figures show that the holder may either be formed withinthe housing of a tape measure, or configured for attachment to anexisting tape measure. This integral holder 120 rendition is likewiseshown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 9, the preferred means for marking 80comprises a circular wheel 84. Other shapes and configurations are alsopossible. It is preferred that the means for marking 80 be made of arigid material such as metal, plastic or of a mark making composite,however other materials are also possible. The preferred wheel 84 havingan aperture 82 for mating with an axle 100. This axle 100 having axleprotrusions or ends 102 configured for rotational engagement with theholder 120. The wheel 84 being preferably mounted at or near the centeror middle 104 of said axle 100.

As seen in FIGS. 8-9 and 31-33, the means for marking 80 may be hardenedand/or ground at an angle 86, similar to a glass cutting wheel. Thisangle 86 may be configured to provide a narrow, accurate mark or may beconfigured and sharpened to actually serve as a cutting wheel. Thus,“marking” is intended to include marking by cutting. Also, theimpression wheel 84, preferably has a rim 88 for contacting the surfaceto be marked, at least a portion of this rim extending out of theenclosure/holder 120.

The axle 100 is preferably an elongated cylindrical shape, as shown inFIGS. 8-9. This axle 100 being preferably made of a rigid material suchas metal or plastic. The means for marking 80 of FIG. 8, having an axle100, a middle 104, and two ends 102. The axle 100 may be integral to themeans for marking 80 or the holder 120 or the housing 20.

The holder 120 is preferably an elongated square or a right rectangularparallelepiped shape. The holder 120 having a means of attachment to thehousing in one embodiment. Examples of such attachment includeadhesives, snap fits, magnets, etc. In other embodiments, the holder 120is integral with the housing, being formed into the housing during orafter manufacture. The housing preferably has a protruding cursor 124that is in alignment with a means for holding a marking wheel parallelto the face of the housing and at a precise position to the bottom ofthe housing.

As shown in FIGS. 25-30, the holder 120 is preferably an elongatedsquare (right rectangular parallelepiped) in shape. Other shapes arealso possible. The holder 120 preferably has a cavity 126 for nesting ofthe means for marking 80. The holder 120 preferably has a means ofattachment 122 to the housing 20, one example of which is shown in FIG.24. The housing 120 preferably has a protruding cursor 124 that is inalignment with a marking wheel of the means for marking 80. This cursorbeing generally parallel to the face of the housing 20 and generallyperpendicular to the means for measuring 40.

As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, any means for holding the means for marking80 perpendicular to the means for measuring 40 in such a way as to allowengagement of the means for marking 80 with the surface to be measuredand marked 160 may be utilized as can be appreciated.

As shown in other embodiments, such as FIGS. 11-14, the bottom wall 28or a portion thereof (partially sloped base) 29 may be angled in such away as to allow for engagement of the tape tip 60 to the surface beingmeasured 160 without initiating contact of the means for marking 80until it is intended. Although one angle is shown, many angles,combinations of angles, cutaways, or geometric reveals or shapes couldachieve the desired results as can be appreciated. The preferred angleis between 7° and 9°. As shown, it is preferred that this angularrelationship of the wall 28 to the partially sloped base 29 beconfigured along the base length of the housing. However, any base shapethat allows for the engagement of the tape tip 162 to the end 62 withoutengaging the mark making means 80 will work and are also envisioned.

In such a configuration, the marking tape measure comprises a housing 20for containing a tape and a marking device 80. This housing 20 having atape opening or aperture 34 and a top wall or side 26 opposite a bottomwall or side. The bottom side comprising a first longitudinal surface(bottom) 28 obliquely joining a second longitudinal surface (partiallysloped base) 29. The tape having measuring indicia thereon, and beingextendible through the tape opening in a first direction. The remainderof the tape being coiled within the housing. The marking device thusbeing connected to the housing in alignment with the second longitudinalsurface, configured to extend out of the housing adjacent the secondlongitudinal surface.

In such a manner, a user could hook the tape tip 60 on the edge or end162 of the surface to be marked and measured 160. With the housing 20tilted as shown in FIG. 12, the housing could be slid away from the end162 thereby extending the tape out of the housing without engaging themeans for marking 80. When the desired extended length is reached, theuser could right the housing 20 as shown in FIG. 11, thereby allowingthe means for marking 80 to engage the surface to be measured andmarked.

As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the housing 20 may have a ramp 36 isflexible when pressure is applied. This ramp 36 prevents the marking ofthe surface being measured and marked 160 until the user pressesdownwards on the housing 20 thereby flexing said ramp 36 and allowingthe means for marking 80 (80′) to contact the surface to be marked. Itis preferred that this ramp 36 be comprised of a resilient material ableto return to its original shape after such pressure is removed.

Another variation of the housing may include the inclusion of at leastone roller or bearing located on the bottom wall of the housing tofacilitate perpendicular movement of the housing, to the means formeasuring, against the surface to be measured and marked.

The preferred coiled measuring tape utilized with the present inventionis an elongated blade formed of a ribbon of metal or composite material.This blade configured to be coiled on a means for a spool (spool means)with a means to retract (retraction means). This tape measureconfiguration (spool means with retraction means) is well known in theprior art. As shown in FIGS. 5, 19, 20, 22, and 23 of the drawings, thecoiled measuring tape 40 comprises an elongated blade 40 formed of aribbon of metal or composite material coiled on a means for a spool witha means for retraction. It is clearly anticipated that the coiled ribbonmeasuring tape 40 may be replaced by other means for measuring includingdigital, GPS, sonar, laser, magnetic, proximity or any other means fordetermining distance or position.

Referring now to FIGS. 15-16, the means for marking 80 may not be awheel, but may be directional in shape. For instance the elongated pointof FIG. 16 or the semi-circular shape of the “wheel” 84 of FIG. 15. Insuch an embodiment, the means for marking 80 would not roll along asurface but be scratched across the surface to be marked, either leavinga mark or creating a groove in the surface to be marked. In such anembodiment, the fact that the means for marking is directional in shape,particularly directional generally perpendicular to the length of thebase 28 of the housing, the means for marking is able to travelgenerally only perpendicularly across the surface of the surface to bemarked. A point, or a scribe, does not have this ability. The base 28itself could have formed therein a directional marking means, forinstance a semi-circular ridge.

A tape measure of the type having a housing with an opening thereinthrough which a portion of a tape having measuring indicia thereon isextendible in a first direction with the remainder of the tape beingcoiled in said housing could be provided with such a marking device.This marking device comprising a marking means for applying a mark to asurface, this marking means having a length and a width, with the lengthbeing longer than the width. This marking means oriented so that thelength is generally perpendicular to the first direction. Such a markingmeans (184, 284) could be any possible shape, but most preferably wouldbe with generally semi-circular in shape, generally semi-ovular in shape(see FIG. 38) or generally semi-hexagonal in shape (see FIG. 39).

The ability to make a mark upon the surface to be marked which isgenerally perpendicular to the distance measured is key to the preferredembodiment of this invention. This is preferably achieved through themarking means being directional so that the marking means will, in use,only apply a mark to the surface which is generally perpendicular to thedistance measured (for instance the length of the tape blade). However,other manners may also be utilized to achieve this goal, includingmanners of restricting the housing itself to perpendicular movementwhile using a non-directional marking means, for instance one or morewheels located in the base of the measuring device.

As shown in FIG. 18, a particular embodiment may include two or moremeans for marking 80, 80′. These means for marking 80, 80′ could beseparate, as shown, or could be joined together. These means for marking80, 80′ are preferably aligned with one another so that side to sidemovement of the housing 20 will result in a single line marked upon thesurface to be marked. Optionally, these means for marking could beslightly staggered so that a differing line style or thickness could beprovided.

Referring back to FIG. 1, it is preferred that the tape measuresincorporating the present invention be configured for inclusion with ameans for locking the tape blade 140. The means for locking the tapeblade 140 has a button section 144 that protrudes to the exterior of thehousing. This is likewise shown in FIG. 3. There are many alternatemeans for locking the tape blade 140, and considered by themselves, areconventional means known in the art and are therefore not shown indetail in the drawings. The means for locking the tape blade 140 ispreferably contained in the housing 20 with a button 144 that protrudesto the exterior of the housing 20. This means for locking the tape blade140 configured to engage and lock the tape blade 40.

The surface to be measured and marked 160 can be of any shape or sizematerial that would commonly be measured with said measuring device. Thesurface to be measured and marked 160 may also be a structure or acombination of materials.

The housing 20 and all the housing sub-components integrally form anenclosure. The coiled measuring tape 40 is retractably contained insidethe housing enclosure 20 on a hub with the free end of the coiledmeasuring tape 40 extending through the housing aperture, attaching tothe tape tip 60. The tape tip 60 is integral with the free end of thecoiled measuring tape 40.

In the preferred embodiments, the means for marking 80 mates with themiddle 104 of the axle 100. As such, the axle 100 protrudes from bothsides of the means for marking 80. These axle protrusions 102 are ableto be received integrally in the walls of the cavity of the holder 126.The preferred holder 120 includes a means for attachment 122 to thehousing 20, and is preferably interconnected with the housing 20.Likewise, the holder may be integral with said housing 20, as shown inFIG. 6.

It is preferred that the holder 120 have a protruding cursor 124 that isintegral. This cursor 124 indicating to the user the location of themeans for marking 80 to the user. Referring now to FIGS. 5, 10 and 11,in use the housing 20 may be brought into contact with the surface to bemeasured and marked 160. The tape tip 60 is allowed to engage the edge162 of the surface to be measured and marked 160, while the housing 20is pulled across the surface to be measured and marked 160 to thedesired location as verified by the cursor 124. The means for marking 80is then engaged by altering the angle of the housing 20, as shown inFIGS. 11 and 12, and applying downward pressure to the means for marking80. Due to the generally perpendicular attitude of the means for marking80 to the means for measuring 40, the desired position of the means formarking 80 is maintained. This is due to the nature of the means formarking 80 being directional and configured for moving forward orbackward and not side to side. This is likewise illustrated in FIGS. 5,10, 12, 15-16, and 19-22.

Referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, shown is an alternative embodiment ofthe present invention. In this embodiment, a chamber 50 is provided forcontaining an amount of a liquid, powder or gel (preferably a liquid)marking substance. This chamber or well 50 preferably provided with aclosure 54, such as a lid, for allowing additional quantities of themarking substance to be added to the well. The chamber 50 may be of anysize or configuration and may be located inside or outside the housing.It may also be integral with the housing or removable as in a cartridgeformat.

This marking substance being transmitted to the marking means 80 througha channel 52, preferably via a wick to an applicator 54 for applying themarking substance, such as an ink, paint, chemical, etc., to the wheelof the marking means 80. It is preferred that in such an embodiment thata wick be employed to transfer the marking substance with the end of thewick comprising the applicator. The rotation of the marking meanstransfers the marking substance to the surface to be marked.

Referring now to FIG. 36, in yet another embodiment of the presentinvention, a marking applicator could be provided for applying a markingsubstance, such as graphite, charcoal, wax, chalk, ink, paint, etc., tothe means for marking 80. For instance, a pencil lead (graphite) 92could be held under tension against the surface of the means for marking80, particularly the wheel 84, which contacts the surface to be marked160. Thus, rotation of the wheel 84 of the means for marking against thesurface to be marked 160 also results in rotation of the wheel 84 of themeans for marking against the indicia (marking) applicator 90. Thisresults in the transmission of the marking substance from the markingapplicator 90 onto the wheel 84 of the means for marking. Then,continued movement of the means for marking 80 against the surface to bemarked 160 results in the transfer of the marking substance to thesurface to be marked from the means for marking. Thus, for instance,utilization of the present invention could result in the creation of anink line along the track of the means for marking.

Additionally, the means for marking utilized with the marking applicatorcould comprise or be comprised at least partially of, a rubber materialor a porous material allowing for easier application of such a markingsubstance. Such a rubber or porous material would more easily hold andcarry to the surface to be marked the marking substance.

Additionally, the marking applicator could be selectively engaged ordisengaged by the operator through use of an engagement/disengagementmeans 70. This would allow the operator or user of the present inventionto decide whether to also or instead apply a marking substance to thesurface marked. For instance, a spring mechanism 72 could be utilizedwhereby through pushing a button 74 on the coiled measuring tape themarking applicator could be activated or deactivated.

As the wheel is rolled on the surface to be marked, ink or any otherliquid is deposited on the wheel. The wheel, as it rolls, deposits theink or liquid on to the surface to be marked.

The housing 20, the holder 120, and the means for marking 80, may bemolded, cast or machined as one component, preferably from a rigidmaterial such as metal, plastic or a mark making composite.

Referring now to FIG. 37, shown is another embodiment of the presentinvention. This embodiment having an asymmetrical tape tip 60. This tapetip 60 having one side 64 longer than the other side 68. In such amanner, utilization of the present invention is easier, in that thehousing 20 can be tilted as shown in the figure with the tape hook 60one side 64, being elongated, more easily engaging the end 162 of thesurface to be marked and measured 160, thereby allowing the device to beutilized without engaging the marking device 80.

As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and operation of thepresent invention, the same should be apparent from the abovedescription. Accordingly, no further discussion relating to the mannerof usage and operation will be provided.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, toinclude variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and mannerof operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obviousto one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to thoseillustrated in the drawings and described in the specification areintended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of theprinciples of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications andchanges will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is notdesired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operationshown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications andequivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of theinvention.

While there is shown and described the present preferred embodiment ofthe invention, it is to be distinctly understood that this invention isnot limited thereto but may be variously embodied to practice within thescope of the following claims. From the foregoing description, it willbe apparent that various changes may be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

I claim:
 1. A marking device for use with a tape measure of the typehaving a housing with an opening therein through which a portion of atape having measuring indicia thereon is extendible in a first directionwith the remainder of the tape being coiled in said housing, saidmarking device comprising: a marking means for cutting a groove in asurface, said marking means harder than said surface, said marking meanshaving a length and a width, said length being longer than said width,said marking means oriented so that said length is generallyperpendicular to said first direction.
 2. The marking device of claim 1,wherein said marking means is generally semi-circular in shape.
 3. Themarking device of claim 1, wherein said marking means is generallysemi-ovular in shape.
 4. The marking device of claim 1, wherein saidmarking means is generally semi-hexagonal in shape.
 5. A marking devicefor use with a tape measure of the type having a housing with an openingtherein through which a portion of a tape having measuring indiciathereon is extendible in a first direction with the remainder of thetape being coiled in said housing, said marking device comprising: amarking means cutting a groove in to a surface, said marking meanshaving a length and a width, said length being longer than said width,said marking means oriented so that said length is generallyperpendicular to said first direction, said marking means having agenerally semi-circular shape.